When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?

Europe in winter becomes an adventure playground, the Alps, Spanish Pyrenees and Italian Dolomites come alive with many exclusive ski resorts, top-notch après ski and delectable cuisine. Charming festive markets are buzzing in December, perfect for a long weekend getaway to Paris, Milan or Vienna to name a few. For more Christmas magic, head north to Finnish Lapland and visit the famous man himself, and witness the Northern Lights burst into action in Sweden, Iceland and Norway. And, if you are yearning for some winter sun, Tenerife is one of the best places to visit in Europe in February, with comfortable temperatures and luxury resorts.

March is a wonderful month to make the most of Europe's cultural heritage, as many countries celebrate world-famous festivals. Witness the colorful Carnival in Venice, Semana Santa in Spain and the lively St. Patrick's Day festivities in Dublin. Europe in April is an ideal time to go to cities like Paris for the gardens and parks, or Rome and Athens to see the sites with fewer tourists. May in Europe is one of the best months to visit resorts along the Mediterranean and Adriatic coast, with warm sun perfect for being on the beach without the summer crowds. And spring is still one of the best times to go to Europe for skiing, the hotter weather makes it perfect for après ski or Easter ski trips with the family.

Summer is when Europe is bursting with energy, with long hours of sunshine, high temperatures and school vacations. The Mediterranean coast of Portugal, France, Spain, Italy, Greece and the Balearics have an abundance of resorts, stunning beaches, and incredible restaurants. Inland, you’ve got historical trips to towns, ancient architecture, vineyards and olive groves to explore. June is the best time to travel to Europe to beat the crowds before the throng of summer starts. The mountains swap from snow and ski to sun, biking and hiking trails and pleasant temperatures, which make for a fantastic vacation if you want to be active or are traveling with teens.

September and October will see the summer crowds ebb away and temperatures start to lose the fierce heat, but with perfectly balmy days and the sea at its warmest, you can’t go far wrong with traveling at this time of year. There also comes an abundance of food festivals and celebrations, the grape harvest begins, and visitors can enjoy the sampling of local produce and wines. Cooler temperatures allow for hiking and biking in the mountains and hills, Mallorca is one of the best places to go in Europe in October, along with the Alps, Pyrenees, and Dolomites. Northern Europe starts to cool and becomes wetter, especially in Iceland and Norway but with the chance of seeing the Northern Lights from November.